Anand Panyarachun
UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador for Thailand
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His Excellency Mr. Anand Panyarachun had a distinguished career as one of Thailand's leading diplomats in the 1960s and 1970s, before spending time in the business world. In 1991 he became Thailand’s Prime Minister, winning widespread respect for his leadership during a challenging time in Thailand’s history. H.E. Anand’s Government was instrumental in implementing wide ranging legislative, economic and social reforms designed to strengthen the economy, improve the environment, enhance education and upgrade healthcare, all while advancing the rights of women and children. A nationwide programme mounted by his government to promote HIV prevention, treatment, care and support won international recognition, inspiring other countries across Asia as well as beyond. H.E. Anand has been awarded multiple honors in Thailand and internationally, including the Ramon Magsaysay Award and others from Japan, Republic of Korea, United Kingdom, Indonesia, and Sweden.
In 1996, H.E. Anand was appointed as UNICEF’s first Goodwill Ambassador for Thailand, and he has been instrumental in raising UNICEF’s profile within the country, as well as being the architect of its resource mobilization strategy, and advising UNICEF on a range of issues regarding emerging socio-economic challenges. He has supported multiple UNICEF campaigns which have had a national impact and been a strong advocate for ensuring a fair chance for every child to grow up in a safe, healthy and protective environment where they reach their full potential – regardless of gender, ethnicity, socioeconomic background or legal status.
He continues to play an active role in the organization, with a strong focus on opportunity and empowerment for young people, while mobilizing the public and private sectors to support UNICEF's work for children in Thailand and around the world. For his work with UNICEF, H.E. Anand has received several awards, including a Special Award in 2003 by UNICEF's global Executive Board in recognition of his work to fight HIV/AIDS in Thailand and to raise funds for UNICEF.
